2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1999 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Lotus Esprit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Lotus Esprit would be higher. At 3,506 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus Esprit (349 HP) has 89 more horse power than 2009 Ford Taurus. (260 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Taurus weights approximately 291 kg more than 1999 Lotus Esprit.
Because 1999 Lotus Esprit is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 Lotus Esprit. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Lotus Esprit (351 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Taurus. (249 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Taurus. 2009 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1999 Lotus Esprit has manual transmission. 1999 Lotus Esprit will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1999 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Taurus | Esprit |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 3506 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 349 HP |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
